Artists displaying work influenced by nature

COLUMBUS -- The Columbus Art Gallery will be hosting a special exhibit throughout the month of May.

Three artists will have their work on display in the Art Gallery which is located in the lowest level of the Columbus Public Library, 2504 14th St.

Lois Smith, manager of the Art Gallery, said the show will be “pretty organic” because the featured artists are each influenced by nature to create their works.

The artists include Travis Apel of Omaha, Dee Spencer Rodgers of Grand Island and Judi Abegelen of Columbus.

Reading from biographies of each of the artists, Smith said each have unique styles.

Apel creates bronze and steel sculptures by using “addition and subtraction of clay, plaster and wax to create forms.”

Rodgers, who does watercolor paintings, focuses primarily on nature and uses vibrant colors in her work.

Abegelen’s photographs are inspired by her surroundings, and wildlife is typically her featured subject.

Smith said they wanted to show a wide range art in the exhibit.

“Our main goal is to offer the opportunity to experience art in a new and different way,” she said.

The exhibit officially opened today. There also will be an opening reception for the exhibit from 5-8:30 p.m. Thursday at the Art Gallery. Admission to see the exhibit is free. The exhibit will close after May 31.

The Art Gallery is open from noon-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday; noon-4:30 p.m. Friday and 1:30-4:30 p.m. Saturday. It is also open by appointment by calling 563-1016.